Prémios e Rankings | Rankings
Chambers Europe
"Rightly acknowledged at the top of the Portuguese market; with well-rounded advice, which is sophisticated without need of clarification."
What the team is known for
Long-standing leader with impressive bench strength and reputation. Advises on the full scope of transactional and regulatory matters with outstanding expertise in recapitalisation and securitisation proceedings.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"The team is at the forefront of securitisations in Portugal and provides market-leading advice based on its experience."
"A very efficient and dedicated team."
Work highlights
Advised the Bank of Portugal on the application of a resolution measure to Banco Espírito Santo and the subsequent EUR4.9 billion sale process of Novo Banco.
Assisted Crediagora, Hefesto and Whitestar Asset Solutions, as originator, issuer and servicer respectively, with the securitisation of a vintage portfolio.
Notable practitioners
Clients enjoy working with banking expert Pedro Cassiano Santos: "We go to him for his enormous knowledge and experience in finance. He always points out any issues and potential risks to us, and in the end we believe that what he writes is very helpful and trustworthy."
Paula Gomes Freire is praised for her "extensive experience and knowledge." She specialises in the placement of debt and equity instruments, securitisation and other asset-backed matters.
Pedro Simões Coelho focuses his practice on investment funds, including the setting up of collective investment schemes, non-performing loans and asset finance.
Managing associate Benedita Aires enters the rankings following positive client feedback: "She already has very notable experience and absolute know-how." She is particularly skilled in structured financial products and asset-backed transactions.
Significant clients
Banif - Banco de Investimento, Barclays Bank, BESI, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Citibank.”
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What the team is known for
Highly reputed team praised for its first-rate expertise in debt capital markets, alongside a growing practice focused on equity. Particularly active in transactions regarding privatisations, covering a wide range of matters including the issuance of covered bonds, share placement and launching of public offers.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"A solid and cohesive team with remarkable experience and client service."
"We really like to work with these lawyers, they are very knowledgeable of matters in which we need their support and easily present a range of options that we can choose from."
"Always quick to respond and very assertive."
Work highlights
Assisted Parpública with the privatisation of the state's remaining 31.5% stake in CTT - Correios de Portugal through an accelerated bookbuilding.
Advised Futebol Clube do Porto and BES Investimento on the acquisition of Sacyr Vallermoso's indirectly held qualifying holding in the share capital of FCP SAD.
Notable practitioners
Pedro Cassiano Santos is widely regarded by peers as "a leader in debt transactions." He is an expert in regulatory, structured finance, securitisations and asset-backed matters.
Paula Gomes Freire is particularly noted for her know-how in securitisations. Her experience also covers debt and equity instruments and banking and finance matters.
Hugo Moredo Santos enjoys a growing reputation in the capital markets arena, where he handles a variety of issues including public offerings and structured finance deals. According to clients, he is "very assertive, quick and unblocks situations we thought were impossible to always find a solution for us."
Practice co-head José Pedro Fazenda Martins focuses on equity capital markets transactions. He draws acclaim from clients, who say: "He is available, always ahead of our questions and knows exactly what needs to be done," and from peers, who confirm he is a "very experienced" practitioner.
Clients enjoy working with senior associate Orlando Vogler Guiné, whom they describe as "helpful and commercial." He is particularly skilled in securities issues and acquisitions.
Significant clients
Barclays, Deutsche Bank, Citibank, José de Mello, Banco Santander Totta.”
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What the team is known for
Highly reputed for its strength and depth of skill across all competition matters. Particularly notable for knowledge of such sectors as banking, telecoms and waste management. Notable expertise in EU state aid rules and PCA investigations.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"Its lawyers are technically very competent and have extensive experience."
"The professionalism and the full support of the firm have been very much appreciated - there is a full commitment of the team."
What's new? New clients include Pharma Bavaria, Orica, COSEC and Eden Springs International.
Work highlights Represented Portugal Telecom in proceedings against the European Commission for imposing an antitrust fine.
Notable practitioners
Nuno Ruiz is known by clients as "an excellent lawyer" and regarded as an "expert in competition law, who is very committed." He advised COSEC on obtaining clearance from the PCA relating to the acquisition of Mapfre's credit insurance portfolio.
Miguel Mendes Pereira has recently been lead partner on several high-profile merger control matters. He is regarded as "proactive, very knowledgeable and well prepared."
Significant clients
Bank of Portugal, Bombardier, Brisa, Novartis, The Portuguese Republic.
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What the team is known for
Highly specialised team advising private and state entities on the full scope of corporate and M&A work, with particular expertise in the TMT, life sciences and energy sectors. Recent mandates include complex privatisations and venture capital transactions.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"One of the most experienced teams in the Portuguese market, offering strong delivery and specific know-how in capital markets for hybrid M&A matters."
"For international aspects the team moves resources around effectively and secures the necessary know-how."
What's new? ENGIE and Apax are two of the team's recent client wins.
Work highlights
Advised Lusomedicamenta on its EUR112.3 million sale to Recipharm.
Advised Apollo Global Management on the EUR65 million acquisition of insurance company Tranquilidade.
Notable practitioners
Managing partner João Vieira de Almeida has long-standing experience in corporate, M&A and project finance. His extensive know-how extends to cross-border deals involving Brazil.
According to clients, Jorge Bleck has "extensive experience in negotiations and international deals, which inspires a lot of trust." Peers agree he is a top player in the corporate finance arena, combining M&A and private equity knowledge.
Noted for his academic strength, Paulo Olavo Cunha frequently advises state companies on corporate governance matters.
Cláudia Cruz Almeida enjoys a growing reputation among peers. She focuses on acquisitions and corporate finance.
Helena Vaz Pinto assists a number of banking and finance institutions with a range of M&A issues, including privatisations and venture capital transactions.
Significant clients
Davita, Portucel, State Grid Corporation of China, Brisa, Johnson & Johnson.
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What the team is known for
Sizeable and multidisciplinary practice covering the full range of civil and commercial disputes, domestic and international arbitration and white-collar crime. Also offers a highly specialised service in patent litigation.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"The team has good know-how, experience and understanding of complex proceedings and presents reliable and objective solutions."
"Whatever the sector, the team has great competence from both technical and knowledge perspectives. It has knowledge of all contentious issues."
Work highlights
Acted for Portugal Telecom on a lawsuit filed by NOS for alleged damages caused by abuse of dominance.
Notable practitioners
Miguel Pinto Cardoso is "very active and focused on his argumentation when defending a case," praise clients. An expert in commercial contentious work, he handles both domestic and international litigation.
Frederico Gonçalves Pereira is considered "an excellent lawyer" by peers, while clients highlight his "experience and communication skills." He specialises in restructuring and insolvency, commercial litigation and mediation.
Sofia Ribeiro Branco handles corporate crime, misdemeanour and compliance disputes. Clients say: "We were very impressed from day one: she always kept us updated and made us feel very confident."
Significant clients
Banco Comercial Português, Galp Energia, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Novartis, AstraZeneca.
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What the team is known for Highly adept at class actions, collective bargaining agreements and the negotiations of top-level managerial departures from major companies. Strong presence in the pharmaceutical, insurance, automotive and IT sectors, assisting numerous domestic and international clients. Also supports on employment aspects of M&A and banking operations.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"From a technical perspective, the firm is very competent and solid. It has extensive experience and provides skilled lawyers."
"I appreciate that the contact we have each time is higher than the last. It really uses every opportunity to work together and gather knowledge about our organisation."
"The team is good in its approach as I look for a detailed and business approach to advise on the right decisions."
Work highlights Advised Johnson & Johnson on a major collective dismissal of its workforce in Portugal, requiring advice on social security issues and the termination of employment contracts.
Successfully represented Esegur against a wrongful dismissal claim filed by a former employee and union representative.
Notable practitioners
Managing associate Tiago Piló heads the employment and benefits practice and is respected as "very strong in labour legislation." He specialises in corporate restructurings, collective dismissal proceedings and social security law. He earns praise for "the quality of his advice, which is very pragmatic."
Significant clients
Novartis, Roche, Avis, Lilly, Bombardier.
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What the team is known for
Prestigious firm with a solid practice, advising across a scope of renewable energy, gas projects and environmental matters. Skilled in public procurement as well as licensing and compliance issues. Active in project development, assisting major clients including energy providers and mining companies.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"A very good law firm, with experts who make themselves available and are very enthusiastic and passionate."
Work highlights Assisted with the negotiations and finance agreements for the financing of a wind farm portfolio, acting for borrowers Trustwind Holding, Parque Eólico Terras Altas de Fafe, Parque Eólico de Mourisca, Parque Eólico de Nave and Parque Eólico da Serra do Ralo.
Notable practitioners
Reputed addition to the team Rui Amendoeira heads the oil and gas practice. He brings with him excellent transactional expertise and regulatory know-how, particularly noted for work in African jurisdictions.
Head of the energy and natural resources group Vanda Cascão is praised by sources for her approach as “a very tough lawyer and undoubtedly one of the best when it comes to defending her client's position.” She regularly handles projects in the power sector and is further noted for her knowledge of renewables.
Head of projects Manuel Protásio is acknowledged for his involvement in project financing and acquisitions. He focuses on the mining sector, with additional expertise in oil and gas.
Significant clients
Tejo Energia, Turbogás, Lusovento, REN - Redes Energéticas Nacionais, WinPower.
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What the team is known for
Handles M&A and corporate finance mandates for domestic and international clients from a wide range of sectors, including government, transport and food and drink.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"The lawyers deliver a lot of quality in their work and we have no issues getting responses from them."
Work highlights Advised Talent on the sale of 100% of the share capital of four higher education businesses.
Notable practitioners
Head of the Porto office Isabel Gião de Andrade "is highly knowledgeable, tough in negotiations and very assertive," say clients. She focuses on restructuring and M&A.
Clients enjoy working with senior associate Inês Ribera, whom they say "delivers things on time and is very accommodating." She regularly assists with M&A, restructuring and contractual matters.
Significant clients
Brisa, ANA - Aeroportos de Portugal, Governo Regional dos Açores, Johnson & Johnson, ESEGUR - Empresa de Segurança.
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What the team is known for
Thriving practice active in corporate insurance, particularly in M&A transactions in the insurance industry. Increasing focus on its international practice due to recent hires, and well resourced to assist clients in emerging markets. Active on regulatory matters and insurance litigation, advising insurers, agents and pension funds.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"The service is professional, proactive and very well organised."
"This team goes the extra mile - it is a good firm, offering value for money."
Work highlights Advised Apollo Global Management on the purchase of 100% of the share capital of Companhia de Seguros Tranquilidade by Calm Eagle Holdings, a company held by the private equity funds of Apollo Global Management.
Notable practitioners
Helena Vaz Pinto and Paulo Trindade Costa are the key contacts for the practice.
Significant clients
Companhia de Seguros Tranquilidade, Zurich, Ageas, Associação Portuguesa de Seguradores, April Portugal.
What the team is known for
Market-leading practice with a specialist focus on complex patent, trade mark and copyright litigation. Particularly well regarded for acting on behalf of major pharmaceutical companies. Also handles licensing processes and management of IP rights.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
“The leading lawyers in their field. They are creative and know everything about the area."
“The team is very organised and really on top of things. It is good at making sure we are aware of everything that is going on whilst providing strategic advice.”
Work highlights Assisted AstraZeneca with patent enforcement litigation against Infarmed for the judicial review of several marketing authorisations of generic pharmaceutical products.
Represented GlaxoSmithKline in patent enforcement litigation against Infarmed.
Notable practitioners
Department head António de Magalhães Cardoso is commended as “a well-regarded lawyer in Portugal. He's creative in his arguments and a great person to have on the team. He can come up with exciting strategies.” He brings significant expertise to IP matters, including patent litigation and arbitration.
Managing associate António Andrade is highlighted for his work in litigation, a key support on patent infringement cases. Interviewees describe him as “very pragmatic, with a great understanding of the pharmaceutical industry.”
Patricia Paias specialises in patent and trade mark litigation. She receives notable praise from clients, who say: “She is excellent and very competent in devising a recommended strategy.” Another source adds that "she is a good professional, committed and very good technically.”
Significant clients
Novartis, Takeda, Lundbeck, Merck, Boehringer Ingelheim.
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What the team is known for
Prominent department with experience of investments across a broad range of industries, such as technology, energy, trade and aviation. Skilled in handling all manner of private equity matters, including those involving multiple jurisdictions.
Work highlights
Represented Apollo Global Management in its EUR65 million purchase of Tranquilidade.
Advised Spectris Group Holding on its acquisition of FiberSensing - Sistemas Avançados de Monitorização, a spin-off of INESC Porto.
Notable practitioners
Jorge Bleck is described as "very well known" in the Portuguese market, and a "good lawyer for big operations." He excels in M&A work in the private equity sphere.
Helena Vaz Pinto continues to play a key role in the private equity and venture capital market in Portugal. She is adept at handling a broad spectrum of matters, including privatisations and restructurings.
Significant clients
Espírito Santo Ventures, KIC InnoEnergy, Stirling Square Equity Partners.
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What the team is known for
First-class practice experienced in road concessions, renewable energy and water projects. Preferred choice for domestic banking institutions as lenders on the renegotiation of concession agreements.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"One of the top firms in Portugal: it has a lot of quality and the lawyers are available and reply promptly."
Work highlights
Advised Brisa Group on the renegotiation of several road PPPs.
Assisted Caixa - Banco de Investimento, Banco Comercial Português, Banco BPI and Santander with the renegotiation and amendment of a number of municipality concession agreements regarding water supply, sewage and waste collection.
Notable practitioners
Manuel Protásio is a well-known player in the market, particularly praised for his experience in energy projects. He specialises in project finance, acquisitions and other structured financing.
Described by a client as "an excellent lawyer," Paulo de Barros Baptista focuses on the road and infrastructure areas.
Vanda Cascão is particularly sought-after for her know-how in energy projects. Her experience covers projects in the water and oil and gas sectors.
Managing associate Ana Luís de Sousa is increasingly active in the projects arena and is recognised as a "hands-on" practitioner. Her clients include administrative authorities, sponsors and financial institutions.
Newly promoted partner Teresa Empis Falcão is singled out by interviewees as a key member of the team. She has significant experience in project finance, particularly in infrastructure, and sources remark that she is "able to truly understand the client."
Significant clients
Ferrostaal, ENGIE, Aquapor, Andrade Gutierrez Group, REN - Redes Energéticas de Portugal.
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What the team is known for
Stellar reputation in the public law market, able to provide a deep bench of recognised individuals. Well regarded for its advice on concessions and PPPs, as well as privatisation processes. Solid presence in the telecoms, healthcare, infrastructure and transport sectors. Regularly handles public law arbitration.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"The team has a good background and is always open and flexible."
"We have had a very positive experience. The team is always attentive and quick to respond."
Work highlights
Assisted the Portuguese government through holding company Parpública – Participações Públicas with the privatisation of 61% of its stake in TAP - Transportes Aéreos Portugueses.
Advised Banco de Portugal on the sale process of Novo Banco.
Notable practitioners
Mário Esteves de Oliveira is a prominent figure in public law. He is considered "a great lawyer, very good lecturer and a very capable individual." He has a long-standing reputation in the area and continues to offer his expertise in administrative proceedings.
Practice head Paulo Pinheiro enjoys a solid reputation, best known for his specialist focus in the health sector. He has been particularly active on arbitration proceedings.
Rodrigo Esteves de Oliveira is widely recognised in the market for his experience in public contracts and administrative law. He is the co-ordinator responsible for assisting the Government of Cape Verde, including advising on public work contracts.
Managing associate André Proença is appreciated by clients for his approach: "He is very available and when we need new ideas he provides options." He focuses on administrative litigation and arbitration.
Significant clients
Portugal Telecom, Brisa, CTT - Correios de Portugal, ANA Aeroportos de Portugal, Johnson & Johnson.
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What the team is known for
Comprehensive real estate practice, experienced assisting clients with real estate transactions and urban rehabilitation. Solid presence on the investment and divestment of commercial property, often assisting international players in the market. Prominent expertise in environmental issues.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"Provides real estate knowledge from a theoretical and practical standing, an open attitude, initiative and high compliance with deadlines, without harming its quality."
"The team has a deep knowledge of all the different areas of law, and a great know-how of the various industries. The lawyers are quick to respond and have great legal creativity in approaching the situations at stake."
Work highlights
Advised Commerzbank and Aberdeen Asset Management Deutschland on the sale of the Entrecampos 28 building located in Lisbon, fully occupied by Portugal Telecom, to Anchorage Capital Group.
Assisted Commerzbank and Aberdeen Asset Management Deutschland with the sale of the ES Tower located in Lisbon to the Anchorage Group.
Notable practitioners
Head of department Pedro Ferreirinha continues to be well respected by sources for his "deep knowledge of the real estate legal framework, and efficient style" on complex real estate transactions. He is increasingly active on behalf of inbound foreign investors. Clients appreciate that "he has superb knowledge and a business approach," and is "assertive, creative and professional."
Significant clients
Meyer Bergman, Deutsche Bank, Quinta da Ombria, Fidelidade.
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Pedro Ferreirinha (Band 2) |
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What the team is known for
Highly regarded outfit with considerable experience in debt restructuring and distressed M&A transactions, in a domestic and international context. In addition to expertise in dealing with banking clients, boasts further experience in several other industry sectors, including healthcare, insurance, real estate finance and transportation.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"The lawyers are very easy to work with, and we can trust in their technical expertise."
What's new? New clients include Apollo, Centerbridge and Morgan Stanley.
Work highlights
Advised BBVA during the negotiation of a global agreement on the restructuring of Martifer's financial liabilities to the Portuguese banks.
Assisted both Energopark Algarve Energy Park and Energopark II with their insolvency proceedings against Deloitte, who as creditor filed for their insolvency.
Notable practitioners
Head of the practice and leading figure Frederico Gonçalves Pereira is seen by his clients as "very impressive." He demonstrates notable skill in litigious restructuring matters.
Managing associate Joana Domingues has extensive experience in complex restructuring matters. She has recently dealt with several special revitalisation proceedings, both domestically and internationally.
Significant clients
Banco Comercial Português, Caixa, Nanium, Morgan Stanley, Explorer Investments.
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What the team is known for
Advises on complex transactional tax matters for a range of clients, notably from the pharmaceutical industry and major telecoms operators. Regularly handles international taxation, tax structuring and litigation, as well as VAT issues.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"Very helpful in resolving minor and more major disputes with Portuguese authorities. I am very happy with the work - the lawyers are always available to help us."
"A fantastic team."
Work highlights
Advised Banco de Portugal on the structuring of the sale of Novo Banco.
Continued to advise Parpública through the privatisation of the state's remaining stake in CTT Correios de Portugal.
Notable practitioners
Tiago Marreiros Moreira is known for his work on international tax planning and restructurings, coming recognised for his "profound knowledge of tax." One client describes him as being "very strong in international tax, with a lot of experience."
Conceição Gamito leads the indirect tax team, where she has a particular focus on VAT work.
Joaquim Pedro Lampreia specialises in tax litigation as the head of the tax disputes team. He receives extensive praise from clients: "He has a lot of quality and is very promising" and "he is always available and professional in his advice." One source notes: "He is eloquent, clear and concise in explaining the issues."
Significant clients
PT, Andrade Gutierrez Group, Deutsche Bank, Apollo Global Management.
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What the team is known for
Sophisticated TMT practice with notable experience in telecoms law. Highly regarded for its regulatory capabilities and capacity to handle complex litigation.
Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
"It's difficult to find other lawyers with the experience that this firm has. The team has a clear background and knowledge of the topics."
"The department is very professional, and combines technical legal knowledge whilst bridging the business area. It is aware of the trends and challenges facing the client. One of the best law offices."
Work highlights
Investigated universal services in Portuguese-speaking countries worldwide, on behalf of ITU.
Notable practitioners
Practice head and outstanding figure Margarida Couto is a regulatory specialist, with excellent reputation in telecoms and notable work in data protection. Clients say: "She asks the right questions, understands our business and gives really good support."
Sources consider market leader Magda Cocco "very knowledgeable and pragmatic. She really gets the broader picture." She is widely active in the telecoms market and clients further benefit from her experience with data protection and cybersecurity law.
Fernando Resina da Silva specialises in IT and emerging technologies, and is highly praised for his extensive work. One interviewee says: "He is a capable partner - very knowledgeable and detailed."
Significant clients FremantleMedia Portugal, MEO - Serviços de Comunicações e Multimédia, UNICRE - Instituição Financeira de Crédito, Portsourcing - Associação das Empresas de Outsourcing de Portugal, Timor Telecom.
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